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Can Dogs Eat Peas, Black Eyed Peas, And Chickpeas?

“Can dogs have peas?” Learn if dogs can eat peas – from snap peas to green peas, chickpeas to black-eyed peas – and whether peas are good for dogs below. 

5 min read·Updated: Nov 10, 2025
Can Dogs Eat Peas, Black Eyed Peas, And Chickpeas?

Quick takeaway: Yes, dogs can eat a variety of different peas, including green peas, snap peas, chickpeas and black eyed peas, as long as they are prepared and served appropriately. That said — as with any human food added to a dog’s diet — there are important considerations around preparation, portion size, dog health status, and frequency of feeding.

Canned peas are not suitable for dogs. This is because of the excessive amounts of sodium present. Plain, unseasoned fresh or frozen peas are the ideal way to serve peas to a dog.  

Be mindful though. As with any new food, regardless of it not being toxic to dogs, it may result in gastrointestinal upset (diarrhea or vomiting) in the first instance and/or if ingested in large quantities.  

Are Peas Good For Dogs? Benefit Overview 

Peas have several nutritional and functional benefits for dogs when used properly:

Peas are a good source of fiber, antioxidants, protein, vitamins A, B, and K, iron, zinc, and potassium. They are also low in calories.  

However, peas also contain purines which can pose a problem for dogs with kidney issues. So, if you know your dog has a renal condition, avoid feeding them peas. If you’re unsure, consult with your vet.  

3 Key Benefits of Peas For Dogs

  1. Peas are nutrient-dense for a vegetable: Peas, from green to black eyed peas, contain fibre, plant-based protein, and a range of vitamins and minerals (e.g., vitamins A, B complex, K; minerals like iron, zinc, potassium). They are relatively low in calories, which makes them potentially useful as a “light” treat or supplemental food. Antioxidants, carotenoids (like lutein/zeaxanthin) in peas can support skin health, eye health, and immune support.
  2. Peas Are A Beneficial Source of Digestive / fibre support: The fibre in peas can help promote digestive regularity and can be useful in moderate amounts for gut health. Because peas are plant-based and generally mild, they can be a good occasional addition to a diet, especially as a treat alternative to high-fat snacks.
  3. Versatility in feeding: Peas appear in many commercial dog foods and treat formulations — so they’re already widely used and accepted. They can be served plain: fresh, frozen (thawed/steamed) or lightly cooked, which gives owners flexibility.

 

a black soup bowl with a white inside holds a collection of fresh green peas. The bowl is sat on a white, wooden slated surface. The bowl sits to the left of the frame

Can Dogs Eat Peas? Important Considerations

While peas are generally safe, there are caveats you should include to make the article fully balanced and compliant.

  • Be careful of over-feeding: While nutritious, peas shouldn’t replace a balanced complete diet tailored for dogs. Too many peas (especially if raw or in pods that are hard to digest) can cause digestive discomfort.
  • Feed in an easy-to-eat manner: The pods of some peas (e.g., sugar-snap or snow peas) may be harder to digest, especially for small dogs or puppies.
  • Use fresh or frozen peas: (unseasoned, no added salt, butter, garlic, onions, or sauces). For frozen peas: thaw or steam lightly before serving — this helps with digestibility. Steam or boil fresh peas — cooking makes nutrients more bioavailable and easier to digest.
  • Introduce slowly: start with a small amount, see how your dog reacts (digestively and behaviourally).

Can Dogs Eat Sugar Snap Peas?  

Yes! As long as they’re unseasoned, fresh, or frozen.  

Can Dogs Eat Snow Peas?

Yes, snow peas are okay for dogs to eat too as long as they are unseasoned, fresh, or frozen.

Can Dogs Eat Green Peas? 

Yes, as long as they’re served unseasoned and aren’t the canned variety.  

Can Dogs Eat Black Eyed Peas? 

As an occasional treat, yes, but only if they’re unseasoned and not the canned variety of black-eyed peas; stick to fresh, frozen, or rehydrate dried black-eyed peas.  

Can Dogs Eat Chickpeas? 

If the chickpeas are tinned in water and are plain, and as long as they’re soaked and cooked thoroughly, dogs can have a spoonful or so of chickpeas in moderation as a treat – just not if they’ve been turned into a dip like hummus!

Final Thoughts: Can Dogs Eat Peas? 

Dogs can eat black eyed peas, green peas, snow peas and chickpeas when they are served correctly, in approprite quantities. Peas can be a healthy and tasty addition to your dog’s diet, as long as they’re served correctly. Fresh or frozen, unseasoned peas provide a range of beneficial nutrients, including fiber, protein, and essential vitamins. However, be cautious with canned peas and always introduce new foods gradually to avoid any digestive upset. If your dog has kidney issues, consult your vet before feeding them peas, as the purines may pose a risk. By serving peas appropriately, you can offer your pup a nutritious treat that supports their overall well-being.  

Sources

https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/nutrition/can-dogs-eat-peas/</span>  

https://www.purepetfood.com/help/can-dogs-eat-peas</span&amp;gt;</span>  

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Sarah MiltonS
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Sarah Milton

Comes from a family of animal lovers and got to grow up with a menagerie of pets! I believe owning a pet is a privilege and I love researching and creating informative, fun content for fellow pet owners to help their furry friends have the happiest and healthiest lives. When I’m not writing blogs, you can find me sharing a walk with my pet dachshund or at a yoga class!

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